The Original
Some backyards become part of the family story.
These photographs document the structure honestly, as found. Restoration work has not yet begun — this is the beginning of the record, not the result.
The backyard where it started
Near Springfield, Illinois, in the founders’ grandparents’ backyard, a large wooden playground rose beneath tall trees. It was never bought from a catalog — it was built, added to, and lived on.
Two generations of play
Children grew up on it. Then their children did too. A tall gabled clubhouse, elevated decks, a broad wooden ramp, long swing wings, and a yellow spiral slide became the backdrop of a family’s summers.
What remains today
The structure still stands, weathered and honest. We are carefully documenting it as found — every beam, joint, and worn edge — before any work begins.
The restoration & expansion vision
Our first showpiece will restore what can be saved and thoughtfully expand what the family needs next. This page will grow into a field journal of inspection, material choices, framing, finishing, and reopening.
Register your interest in a future tour
Tours will only become available after the property and structure are ready. Leave your details and we'll reach out when the time comes.